Understanding High Blood Glucose Symptoms In A Non-diabetic

You might think high blood sugar levels, also called hyperglycemia, is a common condition associated with diabetes, however, that's not the case always. Even if you are nondiabetic, your blood glucose (sugar) levels can increase suddenly, leading to some surprising symptoms. From frequent urination to unexplained fatigue, the signs of hyperglycemia can affect your everyday life. Identifying all the potential high blood glucose symptoms in a nondiabetic is crucial for early medical intervention so as to prevent type 2 diabetes.

The blog will help you learn what a spike in blood sugar feels like for people without diabetes, what are the possible causes, and how to manage them. Let's explore!

10 Alarming High Blood Glucose Symptoms in a Nondiabetic

Do you know around 38% of adult Americans have prediabetes? The symptoms associated with nondiabetic hyperglycemia (prediabetes) are the same as diabetic hyperglycemia. Those commonly include:

1. Frequent Urination

When the blood glucose (sugar) levels increase, the kidneys filter out excess glucose from the blood. This, as a result, leads to frequent urination. This happens as the body tries to get rid of extra sugar levels via urine.

2. Increased Thirst

Increased frequency of urination can cause dehydration that triggers a thirsty feeling. If the blood sugar levels stay high, the body seeks to retain hydration levels by making the individual feel thirsty.

3. Fatigue

High blood sugar levels can interrupt the ability of the body to effectively utilize the glucose for energy. This prevents the cells from receiving the fuel they require to function properly. Thus, it may lead to feelings of fatigue or tiredness. 

4. Blurred Vision

Elevated blood glucose or hyperglycemia can draw out fluid from tissues, including eye lenses. This consequently leads to blurry vision which is a temporary issue. However, it can become distressing if the blood glucose levels stay high for longer periods. 

5. Headaches

As a spike in blood sugar levels leads to dehydration due to frequent urination, it triggers headaches. Additionally, fluctuations in sugar levels can also interfere with normal brain functions. This, as a result, can contribute to headaches.

6. Difficulty Concentrating (Brain fog)

Hyperglycemia can sometimes also impact cognitive functions such as concentration. People with high blood sugar levels might not be able to efficiently process or use glucose. This can make them feel "foggy" or face challenges while focusing on daily tasks.

7. Unexplained Weight Loss

Although diabetics more commonly experience this symptom, nondiabetics with hyperglycemia may also notice weight loss. This generally occurs when the body begins to break down the fat and muscle for energy as it is unable to use glucose efficiently.

8. Increased Hunger

Despite the high levels of glucose in the blood, the body might be unable to utilize it efficiently. This can lead to increased hunger as the body seeks energy to function. It results in the feeling of constant hunger or overeating.

9. Slow Wound Healing

Elevated blood sugar levels can interrupt the ability of the body to heal infections and wounds. In addition, if the blood sugar levels remain high, it might also become more difficult for the body to repair itself. This can consequently slow down the healing times.

10. Nausea and Vomiting

In cases of extreme hyperglycemia, people might experience vomiting and nausea. These symptoms occur when the body can't efficiently metabolize glucose, consequently leading to ketone buildup. One study reports that ketones can directly trigger the vomiting center in the brain.

What Counts as Nondiabetic Hyperglycemia?

Nondiabetic hyperglycemia is typically considered as an increased sugar than the normal level but they are not enough to be diagnosed as in the diabetic range.

Here's the breakdown of what is counted as elevated blood sugar levels in people without diabetes:

The range between 100–125 mg/dL (fasting) or 140–199 mg/dL (2 hours after meals) is considered non-diabetic hyperglycemia. This indicates that a person is at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes which may need medical intervention or lifestyle adjustments.

7 Causes of High Blood Sugar Levels in Non-diabetics

The following factors can lead to increased blood glucose levels in people without diabetes:

1. Stress

Cortisols (stress hormones) can temporarily cause an increase in blood sugar levels.

2. Poor Diet

A diet full of refined carbs and sugar can also contribute to a short-term spike in blood glucose levels.

3. Medications

Some medications such as corticosteroids, dopamine, or norepinephrine can activate enzymes that trigger high blood sugar levels.

4. Obesity

Research shows that excess fat cells can trigger metabolic abnormalities such as "prediabetes" marked by higher blood sugar than normal but not in the diabetic range.

5. Cushing's Syndrome

High cortisol in patients with Cushing's syndrome can cause insulin resistance. This enables the body to use glucose effectively, resulting in increased glucose levels.

6. Genetics

A family history of nondiabetic hyperglycemia can raise the risk of developing high blood glucose. 

7. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal imbalances during PCOS or pregnancy may also cause a temporary spike in blood glucose due to insulin resistance. 

When to See a Doctor?

Seek medical attention, when you notice or feel any of the above-mentioned symptoms. Moreover, call 911 immediately, if you suddenly experience these symptoms:

• Fever

• Fast and deep breathing

• Dry skin & mouth

• Flushed face

• Seizure

• Fruity-smelling breath

• Severe headache

• Muscle stiffness or pain

• Ongoing nausea and vomiting

• Stomach pain

• Weakness or confusion

8 Tips To Manage Nondiabetic Hyperglycemia

The treatment and management include medication, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes:

1. Medications

Healthcare providers may prescribe medicines such as metformin and insulin injections to control blood sugar.

2. Dietary Adjustments

Doctors may ask to reduce intake of refined carbs and sugary foods and choose low-glycemic foods such as whole grains, green leafy veggies, and low-fat dairy foods.

3. Increased Physical Activity

Practice exercises regularly to enhance insulin sensitivity and maintain blood sugar.

4. Hydration

Drink a lot of water to flush out extra glucose content from the body and promote kidney function.

5. Stress Management

Engage in stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or mindfulness to prevent stress-induced spikes in blood glucose levels.

6. Weight Management

Focus on maintaining a healthy body weight to enhance insulin sensitivity and metabolism.

7. Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels

Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly to identify and manage any potential abnormalities.

8 . Addressing Underlying Conditions

If the contributing factors to high sugar levels involve medications, infections, or hormonal imbalances, get the right treatment.

Possible Complications of Untreated nondiabetic hyperglycemia

If you leave the symptoms of nondiabetic hyperglycemia untreated, it can lead to further complications such as:

• Nerve damage (neuropathy)

• Blood vessel damage, raising heart attack and stroke risks

• Slow wound healing

• Kidney damage

• Eye problems

• Increased risks of infections

Final Thoughts

Identifying the high blood glucose symptoms in a nondiabetic is crucial to prevent further complications. From fatigue and frequent urination to increased thirst and headaches, the symptoms can impact your overall health. Hence, it's important to monitor blood sugar levels and seek a doctor's help to manage the possible causes.

Take action and maintain your blood sugar levels and overall well-being to avoid health risks in the future.